The historic Kenilworth Lodge in Sebring was brightly decorated and bursting with excitement for the sixth annual International Wine Tasting event Saturday. The Kenilworth Lodge opened back in 1915 and was placed on the “National Register of Historic Places” in 2000. Its old-world charm was the perfect venue for this event.

Greeting attendees were Casey and Merideth Wohl, sisters-in-law manning the beer tasting table. Casey is the Marketing Director for the Highlands Art League which received the benefits from the event.

Lakeside Air Conditioning sponsored this elegant event.

Men in suits and ties and women in cocktail gowns graced the ballroom at the Kenilworth. The room had tables arranged for different countries including the United States, France, Germany, Italy and Spain.

Each table was decorated to represent the country and had a nice selection of wines available for tasting. In addition to the wines, there were gourmet appetizer and dessert selections from each county.

“We have “lechonasado,” said Jeri Wohl and Allison Willey from the Spain booth. “It’s a type of Spanish/Cuban pork. We pair it with one of our wine selections available here,” said Wohl.

Italy was overseen by Barb Hall and Nancy Palmer. They had “bruschetta,” marinated tortellini and Italian meatballs. The delicious aroma permeated the air and drew people to their table.

Chef Mac Gentleman, from the Palms of Sebring, was carving a delicacy under the warming light in France. “We have rack of lamb with Ratatouille,” he said with a smile.

Germany was represented by Mollie Stephens, Missy Freeman and Becky Travers. Their table was filled with a variety of interesting delicacies. “Kasetuchen” (German cheesecake), “Fleischballchen” (German meatballs) and “Tomtensalat” (German tomato salad) were available for enjoying with their specialty wines.

The center of the ballroom showcased a silent auction with many items available for bid, including original art, unique gifts and getaway trips.

Micro-brews and gourmet coffees were also available during the event. The annual International Wine Tasting is the most popular fundraiser for HAL.

A new event beginning in 2014 will be Cocktails and Culture. The first event will be on Friday, Jan. 31 from 6 to 8 p.m. The Country featured will be Cuba — Celebrating Cuban Artist Hector Nieblas. The crowd is limited to just 50 people to make this a more intimate affair with the artist. In addition to art and conversation with the artist, Cuban cuisine and Cuban cocktails will be available.

For more information, visit their website at www.HighlandsArtLeague.org or call 863-385-5312.